Setting up a free school

    To set up a free school, you’ll need to apply through the Department for Education (DfE).

    You can set up a free school as part of a group that can provide evidence of parental demand (eg a petition), such as:

    • community or faith groups
    • parents
    • teachers
    • charities
    • businesses
    • universities
    • independent schools (private, fee-paying schools)

    All applications to set up a free school must be approved by the Secretary of State for Education. Free schools must:

    • meet a genuine need in the community, backed up by evidence
    • have a good financial plan in place
    • have ‘fair and transparent’ admissions criteria

    Apply to open a free school

    Find out how to apply and download the forms you need to complete.

    The charity New Schools Network has more information for people interested in setting up a free school.

    You can search for government property and land available to rent or buy for your school. You can also find data for other schools in the area.